Wrestling superstar Roman Reigns has told fans of his battle with leukemia ahead the upcoming WWE Raw show at Leeds First Direct Arena.

Fans were hoping to see the poster boy for the sport when the WWE visits Leeds on Tuesday, November 6.

It seems likely that Reigns, 33, will now not be appearing at the First Direct Arena as he concentrates on his health.

In an emotional speech on Monday evening, he told an American crowd: "I feel like I owe everyone an apology.

"For months, maybe even a whole year, I've come out here as Roman Reigns and said I'd come out here every week, that I'd be a fighting champion, that I was going to be consistent, that I was going to be a workhorse - but that's all lies.

"It's a lie because the reality is, my real name is Joe and I've been living with leukemia for 11 years and unfortunately it's back.

"And because the leukemia is back i cannot fulfil my role, I can't be that fighting champion and I'm going to have to relinquish my Universal Championship.

"I'm not going to lie, I'll take every prayer you can send my way, but I'm not looking for sympathy, I'm not looking for you to feel bad for me because I have faith.

"When I was 22 years old I was diagnosed with this. And very quickly I was able to put it in remission.

"But I'm not going to lie, that was the hardest time of my life. I didn't have a job, I didn't have any money, I didn't have a home and I had a baby on the way and football was done with me.

"But do you want to know who gave me a chance - the team that gave me a chance was the WWE.

"And when I finally made it to the main roster, I was on the road and they put me in front of you, the WWE Universe, and to be honest you all have made my dreams come true.

"And it didn't matter if you cheered me, it didn't matter if you booed me, you've always reacted to me and that is the most important thing and for that I have to say thank you so much.

"But you all know the deal and how life is. Life's not always fair, it's not all peaches and cream. Sometimes life throws you a curve ball.

"And right now, the best thing for me is to go home, focus on my family and my health."

Following the announcement, fans in Leeds have taken to social media to wish Reigns well and have posted their support and photos of when he previously appeared in leeds.

As we mentioned, it would appear very unlikely Reigns will be appearing at the First Direct Arena but we’ve approached the venue and the WWE for comment.